Integrated electrical panel

ABSTRACT

The system includes one or more busbars couple to an AC line, branch relays each coupled to a busbar and to a respective circuit breaker, and current sensors each corresponding to at least one respective branch relay of the plurality of branch relays. The system also includes a deadfront arranged in front of the plurality of branch relays, and including openings corresponding to the branch relays allowing an electrical terminal of each branch relay to protrude forward through a respective opening. A circuit breaker is engaged with each respective branch relay, on the deadfront to create an array of branch circuit breakers. The combination of relay and circuit breaker allows each branch circuit to be controllable. The relays may include current sensors, such as a shunt, used to determine a branch circuit current and control the relay. Control circuitry manages the relay on-off operation and monitors branch circuit operation.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional PatentApplication No. 62/804,457 filed Feb. 12, 2019, the disclosure of whichis hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

Typically, a main electrical panel includes a main meter, busbars, and aset of breakers corresponding to individual circuits. Other than one ofthe breakers tripping, or the total usage as determined by the meter,there is no feedback to further determine energy flows or control loads.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure is directed towards an integrated approach toelectrical systems and monitoring/control. For example, in someembodiments, the present disclosure is directed to equipment havingintegrated components configured to be field-serviceable. In a furtherexample, in some embodiments, the present disclosure is directed to aplatform configured to monitor, control, or otherwise manage aspects ofoperation of the electrical system.

In some embodiments, the system includes an electrical panel withembedded power electronics configured to enable direct DC coupling ofdistributed energy resources (DERs). In some embodiments, the system isconfigured to provide DC-DC isolation for the main breaker, whichenables seamless islanding and self-consumption mode, for example. Insome embodiments, the system includes one or more current sensingmodules (e.g., current transformer (CT) flanges, shunts, relays, printedcircuit boards (PCBs)), or any other current interrupt devicesconfigured to provide metering, controls, and/or energy management. Insome embodiments, the system includes components that are designed forbusbar mounting, or DIN rail mounting to provide power conversion thatis modular and field serviceable.

In some embodiments, the system is configured to implement a platformconfigured to manage energy information. In some embodiments, theplatform is configured to host applications. In some embodiments, theplatform is configured to host a computing environment in whichdevelopers may create value-added software for existing/emergingapplications. In some embodiments, the system includes processingequipment integrated in the main electrical panel and configured forlocal energy management (e.g., metering, controls, and powerconversion). In some embodiments, the processing equipment is configuredto communicate over wired (e.g., power-line communication (PLC), orother protocol) or wireless communications links to externallycontrollable loads, third-party sensors, any other suitable devices orcomponents, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, theprocessing equipment is configured to support distributed computingneeds (e.g., transactive energy, blockchain, virtual currency mining).For example, the computing capacity of the processing equipment may beused for purposes other than managing energy flow. In a further example,excess generation may be used to support computing needs. In someembodiments, the platform is open-access and is configured to serve asan operating system (OS) layer for third-party applications. Forexample, third-party applications may be developed forconsumer/enterprise facing solutions (e.g., disaggregation, solarmonitoring, electric vehicle (EV) charging, load controls, demandresponse (DR), and other functions). To illustrate, in some embodiments,the system provides access controls for hardware and data to third-partyapplications. For example, this may include mobile phones (e.g., bothiOS and Android based systems), and may include mechanisms by whichusers selectively grant applications access to specific sources of data(e.g., heart rate data) or control (e.g., camera access). In someembodiments, the system identifies patterns (e.g., local applicationsrunning within an access control framework) from mobile devices andapplies that information to energy management (e.g., controllingcircuits, energy storage, and timing).

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present disclosure, in accordance with one or more variousembodiments, is described in detail with reference to the followingfigures. The drawings are provided for purposes of illustration only andmerely depict typical or example embodiments. These drawings areprovided to facilitate an understanding of the concepts disclosed hereinand shall not be considered limiting of the breadth, scope, orapplicability of these concepts. It should be noted that for clarity andease of illustration these drawings are not necessarily made to scale.

FIG. 1 shows a system diagram of an illustrative electrical panel, inaccordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of an illustrative current sensor, inaccordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 3 shows an illustrative set of subsystems, which may be included ina power conversion device, in accordance with some embodiments of thepresent disclosure;

FIG. 4 shows a legend of illustrative symbols used in the context ofFIGS. 5-16;

FIG. 5 shows a block diagram of an illustrative configuration that maybe implemented for a home without distributed energy resources (e.g.,such as solar, storage, or EVs), in accordance with some embodiments ofthe present disclosure;

FIG. 6 shows a block diagram of an illustrative configuration includingan integrated power conversion unit that allows for direct DC-couplingof the output of a solar system with a DC string maximum power pointtracking (MPPT) unit or module-mounted DC MPPT unit, in accordance withsome embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 7 shows a block diagram of an illustrative configuration includinga solar inverter connected as an AC input through a circuit breaker, inaccordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 8 shows an illustrative configuration including an integrated powerconversion unit which allows for direct DC coupling with a battery, inaccordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 9 shows a block diagram of an illustrative configuration includinga bi-directional battery inverter coupled to an AC circuit breaker, inaccordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 10 shows a block diagram of an illustrative configuration includingan integrated power conversion unit which can interconnect both a solarphotovoltaic (PV) system and a battery system on the DC bus/link, insome embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 11 shows a block diagram of an illustrative configuration includingan external hybrid inverter connected to AC circuit breakers in thepanel, wherein both the solar PV and battery systems operate through theexternal hybrid inverter, in accordance with some embodiments of thepresent disclosure;

FIG. 12 shows a block diagram of an illustrative configuration includingan integrated power conversion unit connected to the solar PV system DC,in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 13 shows a block diagram of an illustrative configuration includingan integrated power conversion unit coupled to the battery system DC,and AC circuit breakers in the panel connected to a PV system operatingthrough an external inverter, in accordance with some embodiments of thepresent disclosure;

FIG. 14 shows a block diagram of an illustrative configuration includinga panel having a DC link and an integrated power conversion unitconnected to the solar PV, battery systems, and an electric vehicle withon-board DC charging conversion, in accordance with some embodiments ofthe present disclosure;

FIG. 15 shows a block diagram of an illustrative configuration includingan AC breaker connected to an electric vehicle with an on-board charger,in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 16 shows a block diagram of an illustrative configuration includingan EV DC-DC charger connected to an electric vehicle, in accordance withsome embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 17 shows an illustrative panel layout, in accordance with someembodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 18 shows an illustrative panel layout, in accordance with someembodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 19 shows an illustrative current sensing board, in accordance withsome embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 20 shows an illustrative current sensing board arrangement,including processing equipment, in accordance with some embodiments ofthe present disclosure;

FIG. 21 shows an illustrative power distribution and control board, inaccordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 22 shows an illustrative IoT module, in accordance with someembodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 23 shows a table of illustrative use cases, in accordance with someembodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 24 shows an IoT arrangement, in accordance with some embodiments ofthe present disclosure;

FIG. 25 shows a flowchart of illustrative processes that may beperformed by the system, in accordance with some embodiments of thepresent disclosure;

FIG. 26 shows bottom, side, and front views of an illustrative panel, inaccordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 27 shows a perspective view of an illustrative panel, in accordancewith some embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIGS. 28A-28D show several views of a current transformer board, inaccordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 29 shows a perspective view of a current transformer board, inaccordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 30 shows an exploded perspective view of an illustrative panel, inaccordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 31 shows a block diagram of a system including an illustrativeelectrical panel having relays, in accordance with some embodiments ofthe present disclosure;

FIG. 32 shows a block diagram of a system including an illustrativeelectrical panel having relays and shunt current sensors, in accordancewith some embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 33A shows a front view, FIG. 33B shows a side view, and FIG. 33Cshows a bottom view of an illustrative assembly including a backingplate with branch relays and control boards installed, in accordancewith some embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 34 shows a perspective view and exploded view of the illustrateassembly of FIGS. 33A-33C, with some components labeled, in accordancewith some embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 35A shows a front view, FIG. 35B shows a side view, FIG. 35C showsa bottom view, and FIG. 35D shows a perspective view of an illustrativeassembly including a backing plate with branch relays and control boardsinstalled, a deadfront installed, and circuit breakers installed, inaccordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 36A shows a front view, FIG. 36B shows a side view, FIG. 36C showsa bottom view, and FIG. 36D shows a perspective view of an illustrativeassembly including a backing plate with branch relays and control boardsinstalled, a deadfront installed, and circuit breakers installed,wherein the branch relay control wires are illustrated, in accordancewith some embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 37A shows an exploded perspective view of the illustrative assemblyof FIGS. 36A-36D, and FIG. 37B shows an exploded side view of theillustrative assembly of FIGS. 36A-36D, with some components labeled, inaccordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 38A shows a front view, FIG. 38B shows a side view, FIG. 38C showsa bottom view, FIG. 38D shows a perspective view, FIG. 38E shows aperspective exploded view, and FIG. 38F shows a side exploded view of anillustrative assembly including a relay housing with a main relayinstalled, a main breaker installed, and busbars, in accordance withsome embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 39 shows a perspective view of an illustrative branch relay, inaccordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 40 shows a perspective view of an illustrative branch relay andcircuit breaker, in accordance with some embodiments of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 41 shows an exploded perspective view of an illustrative panelhaving branch circuits, in accordance with some embodiments of thepresent disclosure; and

FIG. 42 shows a perspective view of an illustrative installed panelhaving branch circuits, a main breaker, and an autotransformer, inaccordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In some embodiments, the present disclosure is directed to a system thatis capable of monitoring and managing the flow of energy (e.g., frommultiple sources of energy, both AC and DC), serving multiple loads(e.g., both AC and DC), communicating energy information, or anycombination thereof. The system may include, for example, any or all ofthe components, subsystems and functionality described below. The systemmay include a microgrid interconnect device, for example.

In some embodiments, the system includes (1) a controllable rely andmain service breaker that is arranged between the AC utility electricsupply and all other generators, loads, and storage devices in abuilding or home.

In some embodiments, the system includes (2) an array of individual,controllable, electromechanical relays and/or load circuit breakers thatare connected via an electrical busbar to the main service breaker(e.g., applies to both panel mounted or DIN rail mounted systems).

In some embodiments, the system includes (3) an array of current sensorssuch as, for example, solid-core or split-core current transformers(CTs), current measurement shunts, Rogowski coils, or any other suitablesensors integrated in to the system for the purpose of providing acurrent measurement, providing a power measurement, and/or metering theenergy input and output from each load service breaker. In someembodiments, for example, a relay is integrated with an attached shunt,and the relay/shunt is attached to a busbar.

In some embodiments, the system includes (4) a bidirectionalpower-conversion device that can convert between AC and DC forms ofenergy:

(a) with the ability to take multiple DC sub-components as inputs (e.g.,with the same or different DC voltages);

(b) designed to mount or connect directly to the busbar (e.g., ACinterface) or DIN-rail (e.g., with AC terminals); and

(c) with different size options (e.g., kVA ratings, current rating, orvoltage rating).

In some embodiments, the system includes (5) processingequipment/control circuitry such as, for example, an onboard gatewaycomputer, printed circuit board, logic board, any other suitable deviceconfigured to communicate with, and optionally control, any suitablesub-components of the system. The control circuitry may be configured:

(a) for the purpose of managing energy flow between the electricity gridand the building/home;

(b) for the purpose of managing energy flow between the variousgenerators, loads, and storage devices (sub-components) connected to thesystem;

(c) to be capable of islanding the system from the electricity grid byswitching the controllable main (e.g., dipole) relay off while leavingthe safety and functionality of the main service breaker unaffected(e.g., energy sources and storage satisfy energy loads);

(d) to be capable of controlling each circuit (e.g., branch circuit)individually or in groups electronically and capable of controllingend-devices (e.g., appliances) through wired or wireless communicationmeans. The groups can be on demand or predefined in response to anexternal system state (e.g. based on grid health, battery state ofenergy);

(e) for performing local computational tasks including making economicdecisions for optimizing energy use (e.g., time of use, use mode);

(f) for allowing for external computational tasks to be run onboard aspart of a distributed computing resource network (e.g. circuit levelload predictions, weather-based predictions) that enhance the behaviorof the local tasks;

(g) allowing for monitoring and control via a mobile app that canconnect directly to the panel via WiFi or from anywhere in the world byconnecting via the cloud. This allows for graceful operation ofhomeowner app in the absence of the cloud (e.g. during naturaldisasters);

(h) allowing for setup and configuration via a single mobile app forinstallers that simplifies the entire solar and storage installationprocess by connecting directly to the panel via WiFi or connectingthrough the cloud via a cellular network; and

(i) allowing suggestions of breaker naming by installer through mobileapplication to standardize names allowing immediate predictions of loadsand improved homeowner experience from the moment of installation. Forexample, the application may be hosted via the cloud, or may be accessedby directly connecting with the panel.

In some embodiments, the system includes (6) communications equipmentsuch as, for example, an onboard communication board with cellular(e.g., 4G, 5G, LTE), Zigbee, Bluetooth, Thread, Z-Wave, WiFi radiofunctionality, any other wireless communications functionality, or anycombination thereof:

(a) with the ability to act both as a transponder (e.g., an accesspoint), receiver, and/or repeater of signals;

(b) with the ability to interface wired or wireless withinternet/cable/data service provider network equipment. For example, theequipment may include coaxial cables, fiber optic, ethernet cables, anyother suitable equipment configured for wired and/or wirelesscommunication, or any combination thereof;

(c) capable of updating software and/or firmware of the system byreceiving updates over-the-air. For example, by receiving updates toapplications and operating systems by downloading them via a networkconnection, or from a user's phone through an application, or anycombination thereof; or

(d) capable of relaying software and/or firmware updates to remotecomponents of the system contained elsewhere, inside the primary systemenclosure, or outside the primary system enclosure.

Any or all of the components listed above may be designed to be fieldreplaceable or swappable for repairs, upgrades, or both. The systemincludes energy-handling equipment as well as data input/output (TO)equipment.

In some embodiments, the system is configured for single phase ACoperation, split phase AC operation, 3-phase AC operation, or acombination thereof. In some embodiments, the system contains aneutral-forming autotransformer or similar magnetics or powerelectronics in order to support microgrid operation when installed witha single-phase inverter.

In some embodiments, the system contains hardware safety circuits thatprotect against disconnection, failure, or overload of theneutral-forming autotransformer or equivalent component by detecting andautomatically disconnecting power to prevent risk of damage toappliances or fire caused by imbalanced voltage between phases.

In some embodiments, components of the system are configured for busbarmounting, DIN rail mounting, or both, for integration in electricaldistribution panels. In some embodiments, the system is designed to bemechanically compatible with commercial off-the-shelf circuit breakers.In some circumstances, commercial off-the-shelf controllable breakersmay be included in the panel and managed by the system's controlcircuitry

A consumer, nominated service provider, or other suitable entity maymonitor and control one or more breakers, relays, devices, or othercomponents using an application or remotely controlling (e.g., from anetwork-connected mobile device, server, or other processing equipment).

In some embodiments, the system is installed with included (e.g.,complimentary) hardware that provides controls, metering, or both forone or more downstream subpanels, communicating using wireless orpowerline communications.

In some embodiments, a thermal system design allows for heat rejectionfrom power electronics or magnetics such as neutral-formingtransformers. This may be done with active cooling or passiveconvection.

In some embodiments, the system includes various modularpower-conversion system sizes that are configured to replace circuitbreakers, relays, or both (e.g., as more are needed, or larger capacityis needed).

In some embodiments, controllable relays are configured to receive arelatively low-voltage (e.g., less than the grid or load voltage) signal(e.g., a control signal) from an onboard computer.

In some embodiments, a main service breaker is also metered (e.g., bymeasuring current, voltage, or both). For example, metering may beperformed at any suitable resolution (e.g., at the main, at a breaker,at several breakers, at a DC bus, or any combination thereof). Meteringmay be performed at any suitable frequency, with any suitable bandwidth,and accuracy to be considered “revenue grade” (e.g., to provide an ANSImetering accuracy of within 0.5% or better).

In some embodiments, the system is configured to determine and analyzehigh-resolution meter data for the purpose of disaggregation. Forexample, disaggregation may be performed by an entity (e.g., an on-boardcomputer, or remote computing equipment to which energy information istransmitted via the network).

In some embodiments, the main utility service input can be provideddirectly or through a utility-provided meter.

In some embodiments, control of the system is divided betweenmicroprocessors, such that safety and real-time functionality featuresare handled by a real-time microprocessor and higher-level dataanalysis, networking, logic interactions, any other suitable functions,or a combination thereof are performed in a general-purpose operatingsystem.

FIG. 1 shows illustrative system 100 for managing and monitoringelectrical loads, in accordance with some embodiments of the presentdisclosure. System 100 may be configured for single phase AC operation,split phase AC operation, 3-phase AC operation, or a combinationthereof. In some embodiments, components of system 100 are configuredfor busbar mounting, DIN rail mounting, or both, for integration inelectrical distribution panels. In some circumstances, non-controllablebreakers are included in panel 102. In some embodiments, a consumer, anominated service provider, any other suitable entity, or anycombination thereof may monitor and control one or more breakers,devices, or other components using an application or remotely (e.g.,from a network-connected mobile device, server, or other processingequipment). In some embodiments, system 100 is thermally designed toallow for heat rejection (e.g., due to Ohmic heating). In someembodiments, system 100 includes one or more modular power-conversionsystem sizes that are configured to replace circuit breakers (e.g., asmore are needed, or larger capacity is needed). In some embodiments,controllable circuit devices 114 (e.g., breakers, relays, or both) areconfigured to receive a relatively low-voltage (e.g., less than the gridor load voltage) control signal from an onboard computer 118 (e.g.,processing equipment/control circuitry). For example, onboard computer118 may include a wireless gateway, a wired communications interface, adisplay, a user interface, memory, any other suitable components, or anycombination thereof. In some embodiments, main service breaker 112 ismetered (e.g., be measuring current, voltage, or both). For example,metering may be performed at any suitable resolution (e.g., at the main,at a breaker, at several breakers, at a DC bus, or any combinationthereof). In some embodiments, system 100 is configured to determinehigh-resolution meter data for the purpose of disaggregation. Forexample, disaggregation may be performed by an entity (e.g., an on-boardcomputer, or remote computing equipment to which energy information istransmitted via the network). In some embodiments, main utility serviceinput 110 is provided directly or provided through a utility-providedmeter.

An AC-DC-AC bi-directional inverter may be included as part of thesystem of FIG. 1 but need not be. As illustrated, system 100 includespower electronics 120 for electrically coupling DC resources. Forexample, power electronics 120 may have a 10 kVa rating, or any othersuitable rating. DC inputs 116 may be coupled to any suitable DCdevices.

In some embodiments, system 100 includes one or more sensors configuredto sense current. For example, as illustrated, system 100 includescurrent sensors 152 and 162 (e.g., a current transformer flange orcurrent shunt integrated into a busbar) for panel-integrated meteringfunctionality, circuit breaker functionality, load controlfunctionality, any other suitable functionality, or any combinationthereof. Current sensors 152 and 162 each include current sensors (e.g.,current transformers, shunts, Rogowski coils) configured to sensecurrent in respective branch circuits (e.g., controlled by respectivebreakers or relays of controllable circuit devices 114). In someembodiments, system 100 includes voltage sensing equipment, (e.g., avoltage sensor), configured to sense one or more AC voltage (e.g.,voltage between line and neutral), coupled to control circuitry.

In some embodiments, panel 102 includes indicators 122 that areconfigured to provide a visual indication, audio indication, or bothindicative of a state of a corresponding breaker of controllable circuitdevices 114. For example, indicators 122 may include one or more LEDs orother suitable lights of one color, or a plurality of colors, that mayindicate whether a controllable breaker is open, closed, or tripped; inwhat range a current flow or power lies; a fault condition; any othersuitable information; or any combination thereof. To illustrate, eachindicator of indicators 122 may indicate either green (e.g., breaker isclosed on current can flow) or red (e.g., breaker is open or tripped).

In some embodiments, the system includes, for example, one or morelow-voltage connectors configured to interface with one or more othercomponents inside or outside the electrical panel including, forexample, controllable circuit breakers, communication antennas,digital/analog controllers, any other suitable equipment, or anycombination thereof.

In some embodiments, system 100 includes component such as, for example,one or more printed circuit boards configured to serve as acommunication pathway for and between current sensors, voltage sensors,power sensors, actuation subsystems, control circuitry, or a combinationthereof. In some embodiments, a current sensor provides a sufficientaccuracy to be used in energy metering (e.g., configured to provide anANSI metering accuracy of within 0.5% or better). In some embodiments,current sensors 152 and 162 (e.g., the current sensing component) can bedetached, field-replaced, or otherwise removable. In some embodiments,one or more cables may couple the PCB of a current sensor to theprocessing equipment. In some embodiments, the sum of each power of theindividual circuits (e.g., branch circuits) corresponds to the totalmeter reading (e.g., is equivalent to a whole-home “smart” meter).

In some embodiments, system 100 includes an embedded power conversiondevice (e.g., power electronics 120). The power conversion device (e.g.,power conversion device 120) may be arranged in a purpose-builtelectrical distribution panel, allowing for DC-coupling of loads andgeneration (e.g., including direct coupling or indirect coupling ifvoltage levels are different). For example, DC inputs 116 may beconfigured to be electrically coupled to one or more DC loads,generators, or both. In some embodiments, power conversion device 120includes one or more electrical breakers that snap on to one or morebusbars of an electrical panel 102. For example, AC terminals of powerconversion system 120 may contact against the busbar directly. In afurther example, power conversion device 120 may be further supportedmechanically by anchoring to the backplate of electrical panel 102(e.g., especially for larger, or modular power stages). In someembodiments, power conversion device 120 includes a bi-directional powerelectronics stack configured to convert between AC and DC (e.g.,transfer power in either direction). In some embodiments, powerconversion device 120 includes a shared DC bus (e.g., DC inputs 116)configured to support a range of DC devices operating within apredefined voltage range or operating within respective voltage ranges.In some embodiments, power conversion device 120 is configured to enablefault-protection. For example, system 100 may prevent fault-propagationusing galvanic isolation. In some embodiments, power conversion device120 is configured to allow for digital control signals to be provided toit in real-time from the control circuitry (e.g., within electricalpanel 102, from onboard computer 118).

In some embodiments, power conversion device 120 is configured as a mainservice breaker and utility disconnect from a utility electricitysupply. For example, power conversion device may be arranged at theinterface between a utility service and a site (e.g., a home orbuilding). For example, power conversion device 120 may be arrangedwithin electrical panel 102 (e.g., in place of, or in addition to, amain service breaker 112).

FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of illustrative current sensor 200, inaccordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. For example,current sensor 200 may be mounted to the backplate of an electricalpanel in a purpose-built housing (e.g., as part of panel 102 of FIG. 1),mounted on a DIN-rail, or include any other suitable mountingconfiguration. In some embodiments, the component includes, for example,one or more solid-core current-transformers 206 configured to providehigh-accuracy metering of individual load wires fed in to the electricalpanel and connected to circuit breakers (e.g., in some embodiments, onesensor per breaker). In some embodiments, the component includes, forexample, current measurement shunts attached to, or integrated directlywith, one or more bus bars. Signal leads 204 are configured to transmitsensor information (e.g., measurement signals), receive electric powerfor sensors, transmit communications signals (e.g., when current sensor200 includes an analog to digital converter and any other suitablecorresponding circuitry). In some embodiments, current sensor 200 isconfigured to sense current and transmit analog signals via signal leads204 to control circuitry. In some embodiments, current sensor 200 isconfigured to sense current and transmit digital signals via signalleads 204 to control circuitry. For example, signal leads 204 may bebundled into one or more low-voltage data cables for providing breakercontrols. In some embodiments, current sensor 200 is configured to senseone or more voltages, as well as current, and may be configured tocalculate, for example, power measurements associated with branchcircuits or other loads.

FIG. 3 shows illustrative set of subsystems 300, which may include apower conversion device (e.g. power conversion device 120 of FIG. 1), inaccordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. In someembodiments, the power conversion device is configured to providegalvanic isolation between the grid (e.g., AC grid 302, as illustrated)and the electrical system by converting AC to DC (e.g., using AC-DCconverter 304) at the electrical main panel. In some embodiments, thepower conversion device is configured to step-up from nominal DC voltageto a shared DC bus voltage (e.g., that may be compatible withinter-operable DC loads and generation). For example, DC-DC converter306 may be included to provide isolation, provide a step up or step downin voltage, or a combination thereof. In a further example, the powerconversion device may include a DC-DC isolation component (e.g., DC-DCconverter 306). In some embodiments, the power conversion device isconfigured to convert power from DC bus voltage to nominal AC voltage toconnect with conventional AC loads & generation. For example, DC-ACconverter 308 may be included to couple with AC loads and generation. Insome embodiments, the power conversion device is configured to supportmicrogrid (e.g., self-consumption) functionality, providing a seamlessor near seamless transition from and to grid power. In some embodiments,the self-consumption architecture benefits in terms of conversion lossesassociated with the double-conversion (e.g., no need to convert to gridAC during self-consumption). In some embodiments, the device isconfigured to support AC and DC voltages used in homes/buildings. Forexample, the power conversion device may be configured to supporttypical AC appliance voltages and DC device voltages. In someembodiments, the power conversion device may be used to support amicrogrid, real-time islanding, or other suitable use-cases.

FIG. 4 shows legend 400 of illustrative symbols used in the context ofFIGS. 5-16, in accordance with some embodiments of the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 5 shows a block diagram of illustrative configuration 500 that maybe implemented for a home without distributed energy resources (e.g.,such as solar, storage, or EVs), in accordance with some embodiments ofthe present disclosure. As illustrated in FIG. 5, the system includesintegrated gateway 503, controllable (e.g., islanding) main servicedevice 501 with transfer device 502, and individual circuit devices 504that are both metered and controllable (e.g., switched). In someembodiments, the busbar design can accommodate both controllable andnon-controllable (e.g., legacy) circuit devices (e.g., breakers, relays,or both). In some embodiments, branch meters 505 are configured to bemodular, allowing for grouping circuits with one device (e.g., 2-4circuits or more). In some embodiments, integrated gateway 503 isconfigured to perform several local energy management functionsincluding, for example: voltage-sensing the grid; controlling islandingmain service breaker 501; controlling circuit breakers of circuitbreakers 504 individually and in groups, measuring power & energy inreal-time from each branch, computing total power at who panel level;and communicating wirelessly (e.g., using cellular, Wifi, Bluetooth, orother standard) with external devices as well as any suitablecloud-hosted platform. The system may be configured to monitor andcontrol various electrical loads 506. The field-installable powerconversion unit (e.g., a bi-directional inverter) may be included tothis configuration. In some embodiments, controllable main servicedevice 501 with transfer device 502 is configured to be used for safelydisconnecting from the grid, connecting to grid 599, or both.

FIG. 6 shows a block diagram of illustrative configuration 600 includingintegrated power conversion device 510 that allows for directDC-coupling of the output of a solar system 512 with a DC string maximumpower point tracking (MPPT) unit or module-mounted DC MPPT unit (e.g.,unit 511), in accordance with some embodiments of the presentdisclosure. In some embodiments, the DC input voltage range of powerconversion device 510 can accommodate various DC inputs allowing foreasy integration of solar modules into a home. In some embodiments,power conversion device 510 is configured to serve as an isolation ordisconnect device from the grid or electric loads. In some embodiments,the output level of solar system 512 is controllable from powerconversion device 510 modulating the DC link voltage.

FIG. 7 shows a block diagram of illustrative configuration 700 includingexternal power conversion device 513 (e.g., a solar inverter) connectedas an AC input through a circuit breaker (e.g., of controllable circuitbreakers 504), in accordance with some embodiments of the presentdisclosure. In some embodiments, external power conversion device 513may be a string MPPT or solar module mounted MPPT or micro-inverter. Insome embodiments, a circuit breaker used to couple solar system 514 tothe busbar of the panel may be sized to accommodate the appropriatesystem capacity. The output level of solar system 514 may be controlledusing direct communication with solar system 514 or using voltage-basedor frequency-based controls (e.g., from gateway 503). For example,frequency droop may be described as a modulation to instantaneousvoltage V(t), rather than root-mean square voltage (V_RMS).

FIG. 8 shows illustrative configuration 800 including power conversiondevice 515 (e.g., a DC-DC converter, as illustrated) which allows fordirect DC coupling with battery system 516 (i.e., an energy storagedevice), in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.The output of battery system 516 may vary within an allowable range ofDC link 517 (e.g., a DC bus). In some embodiments, the output level ofbattery system 516 is controllable from the integrated power conversionunit modulating the DC link voltage (e.g., an AC-DC converter).

FIG. 9 shows a block diagram of illustrative configuration 900 includingbi-directional battery inverter 518 coupled via AC link 520 to an ACcircuit breaker (of controllable circuit breakers 504), in accordancewith some embodiments of the present disclosure. In some embodiments,the charge/discharge levels of battery system 519 may be controlledeither using direct communication with battery inverter 518 or throughvoltage-based or frequency-based control.

FIG. 10 shows a block diagram of illustrative configuration 1000including integrated power conversion device 510 which can interconnectboth a solar photovoltaic (PV) system (e.g., solar system 525) usingmaximum-power point tracking (MPPT) and a battery system (e.g., batterysystem 523) via DC link 521. In some embodiments, integrated powerconversion device 510 effectively serves as a hybrid inverter embeddedwithin the panel. Illustrative configuration 1000 of FIG. 10 may offersignificant advantages in terms of direct DC charging of the batteryfrom PV generation. In some embodiments, the illustrative configurationof FIG. 10 allows for minimizing, or otherwise reducing, the number ofredundant components across power conversion, metering, andgateway/controls. In some embodiments, both the PV and batteryinput/output levels may be modified using voltage-based controls on theDC bus. The DC/DC converter may be provided by PV or battery vendor butmay also be provided as part of the system (e.g., integrated into thesystem). In some embodiments, as illustrated, battery system 523 iscoupled to DC-DC converter 522 and solar system 525 is coupled to DC-DCconverter 524, and thus both are coupled to DC link 521, albeitoperating at potentially different voltages.

FIG. 11 shows a block diagram of illustrative configuration 1100including external hybrid inverter 527 coupled via AC link 526 to one ormore of controllable circuit breakers 504 in the panel, wherein bothsolar system 529 and battery system 528 operate through external hybridinverter 527, in accordance with some embodiments of the presentdisclosure. In some embodiments, the PV output and batterycharge/discharge levels may be controlled either using directcommunication with hybrid inverter 527 or through voltage-based control(e.g., using gateway 503). In some embodiments, the system is configuredto accommodate installation of an autotransformer. For example, theautotransformer may support a 240V hybrid inverter when the systemincludes a split phase 120V/240V set of loads. In some embodiments, thesystem is configured with hardware and/or software devices designed toprotect loads from autotransformer failures, and/or protect anautotransformer from excessive loads. In some embodiments the system isconfigured with hardware and/or software devices designed to disconnectan inverter from the system in the event of a fault in order to protectan autotransformer and/or to protect loads. In some embodiments, theautotransformer may be controlled by, for example, controllable circuitbreakers or control relays. In some embodiments hardware and/or softwaredesigned for system protection may use controllable circuit breakers orcontrol relays to disconnect the autotransformer and or inverter fromthe system.

FIG. 12 shows a block diagram of illustrative configuration 1200including integrated power conversion device 510 connected to solar PVsystem 532 via DC link 530 and DC-DC converter 531, in accordance withsome embodiments of the present disclosure. The system also includes oneor more of controllable circuit breakers 504 in the panel coupled via AClink 533 to external bi-directional inverter 534, which is connected tobattery system 535. Illustrative configuration 1200 of FIG. 12 may beconfigured to support various battery designs that are deployed withbuilt-in bi-directional inverter 534. In some embodiments, theconfiguration allows for relatively easy augmentation of batterycapacity on the direct DC bus (e.g., coupled to bi-directional inverter534).

FIG. 13 shows a block diagram of illustrative configuration 1300including integrated power conversion device 510 coupled to batterysystem 538 via DC-DC converter 537, and one or more of controllablecircuit breakers 504 in the panel coupled via AC link 539 to solar PVsystem 541 operating through external inverter 540, in accordance withsome embodiments of the present disclosure. In some embodiments,illustrative configuration 1300 of FIG. 13 is configured to supportinstallation where solar is already deployed. For example, it may allowfor relatively easy augmentation of battery and PV capacity on thedirect DC bus (e.g., DC link 536).

FIG. 14 shows a block diagram of illustrative configuration 1400including a panel having DC link 542 and integrated power conversiondevice 510 connected to solar PV system 547 via DC-DC converter 546,battery system 545 coupled via DC-DC converter 544, and electric vehiclewith on-board DC charging conversion system 543, in accordance with someembodiments of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, each of thesystems coupled to DC link 542 may be individually monitored andcontrolled using direct communication or voltage-based controls, forexample (e.g., from gateway 503).

FIG. 15 shows a block diagram of illustrative configuration 1500including one or more of controllable circuit breakers 504 coupled viaAC link 549 to electric vehicle 550 with on-board charger 551 andonboard battery system 552, in accordance with some embodiments of thepresent disclosure. In some embodiments, the system may be configured tocontrol charging/discharging of battery system 552 of electric vehicle550 (e.g., depending on whether onboard charger 551 is bi-directional).

FIG. 16 shows a block diagram of illustrative configuration 1600including power conversion device 510 coupled to EV DC-DC charger 554via DC link 553, which is in turn coupled to electric vehicle 560 via DClink 555, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.For example, this may allow for circumvention of any on-board chargers(e.g., onboard charger 561) and faster, higher efficiency charging ofbattery system 562 of electric vehicle 560. In some embodiments, thecharge/discharge levels of battery system 562 may be controlled eitherusing direct communication with battery system 562 or throughvoltage-based control of DC-DC charger 554, for example. In someembodiments, the system includes an integrated DC-DC charger (e.g.,integrated into power conversion device 510), configured to charge anelectric vehicle directly (e.g., without an intermediate device).

FIG. 17 shows illustrative panel layout 1700, in accordance with someembodiments of the present disclosure. For example, the panel includesmain breaker relay 1702 (e.g., for grid-connection), gateway board 1704(e.g., including processing equipment, communications equipment, memory,and input/output interface), two current transformer modules 1706 and1708 (e.g., PCBs including solid-core current sensors), and powerconversion device 1710 (e.g., an AC-DC converter).

FIG. 18 shows illustrative panel layout 1800, in accordance with someembodiments of the present disclosure. For example, the panel includesmain breaker relay 1802 (e.g., for grid-connection), processingequipment 1804 (e.g., IoT module 1814, microcontroller unit 1824 (MCU),and input/output (I/O) interface 1834), two current transformers modules1806 and 1808 (e.g., PCBs including solid-core current sensors), andpower conversion device 1810 (e.g., an AC-DC converter). In anillustrative example, main breaker relay 1802 and power conversiondevice 1810 of FIG. 18 may be controllable using processing equipment1804 (e.g., having a wired or wireless communications coupling).

FIG. 19 shows illustrative current sensing board 1900 (e.g., withcurrent transformers), in accordance with some embodiments of thepresent disclosure. For example, as illustrated, current sensing board1900 includes connectors 1904 for power and signal I/O, ports 1910 forcoupling to controllers, LEDs 1908 or other indicators for indicatingstatus, any other suitable components (not shown), or any combinationthereof. For example, current sensing board 1900 may be included anyillustrative panel or system described herein.

FIG. 20 shows illustrative current sensing board arrangement 2000, withcurrent sensing board 2001 including processing equipment, in accordancewith some embodiments of the present disclosure. For example, asillustrated, current sensing board 2001 is configured to receive signalsfrom six current transformers at terminals 2002. In some embodiments,current sensing board 2001, as illustrated, includes general purposeinput/output (GPIO) terminals 2008 and 2012 configured to transmit,receive, or both, signals from one or more other devices (e.g., a rotarybreaker drive, LED drive, and/or other suitable devices). In someembodiments, current sensing board 2001, as illustrated, includes serialperipheral interface (SPI) terminals 2004, universal asynchronousreceiver/transmitter terminals 2010, SAR terminals 2006, any othersuitable terminals, or any combination thereof.

FIG. 21 shows an illustrative arrangement including board 2100 (e.g.,for power distribution and control), in accordance with some embodimentsof the present disclosure. For example, illustrative board 2100 includesGPIO terminals 2102, 2104, and 2106 (e.g., coupled to main AC breakerrelay 2150, main AC breaker control module 2151, LED drive 2152, and IoTmodule 2153), serial inter-integrated circuit (I2C) communicationsterminals 2108 (e.g., I2C protocol for communicating with temperaturesensor 2154 and authentication module 2155), a universal serial bus(USB) communications terminals 2110 (e.g., for communicating with an IoTmodule 2153), a real-time clock (RTC) 2112 coupled to clock 2156 (e.g.,a 32 kHz clock), several serial peripheral interface (SPI)communications terminals 2114 (e.g., for communicating with currentsensor boards 2157, any other suitable sensors, or any other suitabledevices), and quad-SPI (QSPI) communications terminals 2116 (e.g., forcommunicating with memory equipment 2158). Board 2100, as illustrated,is configured to manage/monitor main AC relay 2150 and accompanyingelectrical circuitry that may be coupled to AC-DC converters 260, 261,and 262, AC busbars 2170, or any other suitable devices/components ofthe system.

FIG. 22 shows an illustrative IoT module 2200, in accordance with someembodiments of the present disclosure. Illustrate IoT module 2200includes power interface 2202 (e.g., to receive electrical power frompower supply 2203), memory interface 2204 (e.g., to store and recallinformation/data from memory 2205), communications interfaces 2216 and2208 (e.g., to communicate with a WiFi module 2217 or LTE module 2209),USB interface 2206 (e.g., to communicate with control MCU 2207), GPIOinterface 2208 (e.g., to communicate with control MCU 2207), and QSPIinterface 2210 (e.g., to communicate with memory equipment 2211 or otherdevices).

FIG. 23 shows table 2300 of illustrative use cases, in accordance withsome embodiments of the present disclosure. For example, table 2300includes self-generation cases (e.g., with self-consumption,import/export), islanding cases (e.g., with and without solar, battery,and EV), and a next export case (e.g., including solar, battery and EV,with net export). In some embodiments, the panels and systems describedherein may be configured to achieve the illustrative use cases of table2300.

In some embodiments, the system is configured to implement a platformconfigured to communicate with HMI devices (e.g., Echo™, Home™, etc.).In some embodiments, the system may be configured to serve as a gatewayfor controlling smart appliances enabled with compatible wired/wirelessreceivers. For example, a user may provide a command to an HMI device orto an application, which then sends a direct control signal (e.g., adigital state signal) to a washer/dryer (e.g., over PLC, WiFi orBluetooth).

In some embodiments, the platform is configured to act as an OS layer,connected to internal and external sensors, actuators, both. Forexample, the platform may allow for third party application developersto build features onto or included in the platform. In a furtherexample, the platform may provide high-resolution, branch level meterdata for which a disaggregation service provider may build anapplication on the platform. In a further example, the platform may beconfigured to control individual breakers, and accordingly ademand-response vendor may build an application on the platform thatenables customers to opt-in to programs (e.g., energy-use programs). Ina further example, the platform may provide metering information to asolar installer who may provide an application that showcases energygeneration & consumption to the consumer. The platform may receive,retrieve, store, generate, or otherwise manage any suitable data orinformation in connection with the system. In some embodiments, forexample, the platform may include a software development kit (SDK),which may include an applications programming interface (API), and otheraspects developers may use to generate applications. For example, theplatform may provide libraries, functions, objects, classes,communications protocols, any other suitable tools, or any combinationthereof.

In some embodiments, the systems disclosed herein are configured toserve as a gateway and platform for an increasing number of connecteddevices (e.g., appliances) in a home or business. In some embodiments,rather than supporting only a handful of ‘smart’ appliances in a home(e.g., sometimes with redundant gateways, cloud-based platforms, andapplications), the systems disclosed herein may interface to many suchdevices. For example, each powered device in a home may interface withthe electrical panel of the present disclosure, through an applicationspecific integrated circuit (ASIC) that is purpose-built and installedwith or within the appliance. The ASIC may be configured forcommunication and control from the panel of the present disclosure.

In some embodiments, the system provides an open-access platform for anyappliance to become a system-connected device. For example, the panelmay be configured to serve as a monitoring and control hub. By includingintegration with emerging HMI (human-machine interface) solutions andcommunication pathways, the system is configured to participate in thegrowing IoT ecosystem.

FIG. 24 shows illustrative IoT arrangement 2400, in accordance with someembodiments of the present disclosure. The systems disclosed herein maybe installed in many locations (e.g., indicated by houses 2401 in FIG.24), each including a respective main panel, solar panel system 2402,battery system 2404, set of appliances 2406 (e.g., smart appliances orotherwise), other loads 2408 (e.g., lighting, outlets, user devices),electric vehicle charging station 2410, one or more HMI devices 2412,any other suitable devices, or any combination thereof. The systems maycommunicate with one another, communicate with a central processingserver (e.g., platform 2450), communicate with any other suitablenetwork entities, or any combination thereof. For example, networkentities providing energy services, third-party IoT integration, andedge computing may communicate with, or otherwise use data from, one ormore systems.

In some embodiments, the system may be configured to communicate withlow-cost integrated circuits, ASIC (application specific integratedcircuits), PCBs with ASICs mounted onboard, or a combination thereofthat may be open-sourced or based on reference designs, and adopted byappliance manufacturers to readily enable communication and controlswith the systems disclosed herein. For example, the system (e.g., asmart panel) may be configured to send/receive messages and controlstates of appliances to/from any device that includes an IoT module. Inan illustrative example, an oven can become a smart appliance (e.g., asystem-connected device) by embedding an IoT module. Accordingly, when acustomer using a smart panel inputs a command (e.g., using anapplication hosted by the system) to set the oven to 350 degrees, thesystem may communicate with the module-enabled oven, transmitting thecommand. In a further example, the system may be configured tocommunicate with low-cost DC/DC devices, ASICs, or both that can beembedded into solar modules, battery systems, or EVs (e.g., bymanufacturers or aftermarket) that allow control of such devices (e.g.,through DC bus voltage modulation/droop curve control).

FIG. 25 shows a flowchart of illustrative processes 2500 that may beperformed by the system. For example, processes 2500 may be performed byany suitable processing equipment/control circuitry described herein.

In some embodiments, at step 2502, the system is configured to measureone or more currents associated with the electrical infrastructure ordevices. For example, the system may include one or more current sensorboards configured to measure currents.

In some embodiments, at step 2504, the system is configured to receiveuser input (e.g., from a user device or directly to a user inputinterface). For example, the system may include a communicationsinterface and may receive a network-based communication from a user'smobile device. In a further example, the system may include atouchscreen and may receive haptic input from a user.

In some embodiments, at step 2506. the system is configured to receivesystem information. For example, the system may receive usage metrics(e.g., peak power targets, or desired usage schedules). In a furtherexample, the system may receive system updates, driver, or othersoftware. In a further example, the system may receive information aboutone or more devices (e.g., usage information, current or voltagethresholds, communications protocols that are supported). In someembodiments, the system is configured to update firmware on connected orotherwise communicatively coupled devices (e.g., the inverter, battery,downstream appliances, or other suitable devices).

In some embodiments, at step 2508, the system is configured to receiveinput from one or more devices. For example, the system may include anI/O interface and be configured to receive power line communications(PLC) from one or more devices. For example, an appliance may includeone or more digital electrical terminals configured to provideelectricals signals to the system to transmit state information, usageinformation, or provide commands. Device may include solar systems, EVcharging systems, battery systems, appliances, user devices, any othersuitable devices, or any combination thereof.

In some embodiments, at step 2510, the system is configured to processinformation and data that it has received, gathered, or otherwise storesin memory equipment. For example, the system may be configured todetermine energy metrics such as peak power consumption/generation, peakcurrent, total power consumption/generation, frequency of use/idle,duration of use/idle, any other suitable metrics, or any combinationthereof. In a further example, the system may be configured to determinean energy usage schedule, disaggregate energy loads, determine a desiredenergy usage schedule, perform any other suitable function, or anycombination thereof. In a further example, the system may be configuredto compare usage information (e.g., current) with reference information(e.g., peak desired current) to determine an action (e.g., turn offbreaker).

In some embodiments, at step 2512, the system is configured to storeenergy usage information in memory equipment. For example, the systemmay store and track energy usage over time. In a further example, thesystem may store information related to fault events (e.g., tripping abreaker or a main relay).

In some embodiments, at step 2514, the system is configured to transmitenergy usage information to one or more network entities, user devices,or other entities. For example, the system may transmit usageinformation to a central database. In a further example, the system maytransmit energy usage information to an energy service provider.

In some embodiments, at step 2516, the system is configured to controlone or more controllable breakers, relays, or a combination thereof. Forexample, the breakers, relays, or both may be coupled to one or morebusbars, and may include a terminal to trip and reset the breaker thatis coupled to processing equipment. Accordingly, the processingequipment may be configured to turn breakers, relays or both “on” or“off” depending on a desired usage (e.g., a time schedule for usage of aparticular electrical circuit), a safety state (e.g., an overcurrent,near overcurrent, or inconsistent load profile), or any other suitableschedule.

In some embodiments, at step 2518, the system is configured to controlone or more controllable main breakers. For example, the main breakermay be coupled to an AC grid or meter and may include a terminal to tripand reset the breaker that is coupled to processing equipment. Theprocessing equipment may turn the breaker on or off depending on safetyinformation, user input, or other information.

In some embodiments, at step 2520, the system is configured to scheduleenergy usage. For example, the system may determine a desired energyusage schedule based on the actual usage data and other suitableinformation. In a further example, the system may use controllablebreakers, IoT connectivity, and PoL connectivity to schedule usage.

In some embodiments, at step 2522, the system is configured to performsystem checks. For example, the system may be configured to testbreakers, check current sensors, check communications lines (e.g., usinga lifeline or ping signal), or perform any other function indicating astatus of the system.

In some embodiments, at step 2524, the system is configured to provideoutput to one or more devices. For example, the system may be configuredto provide output to an appliance (e.g., via PLC, WiFi, or Bluetooth), aDC-DC converter or DC-AC inverter (e.g., via serial communication,ethernet communication, WiFi, Bluetooth), a user device (e.g., a user'smobile smart phone), an electric vehicle charger or control systemthereof, a solar panel array or control system thereof, a battery systemor control system thereof.

In an illustrative example of processes 2500, the system may manageelectrical loads by sensing currents, determining operating parameters,and controlling one or more breakers. The system (e.g., controlcircuitry thereof, using one or more current sensing modules thereof)may sense a plurality of currents. Each current of the plurality ofcurrents may correspond to a respective controllable breaker. The systemdetermines one or more operating parameters and controls each respectivecontrollable breaker based on the current correspond to the respectivecontrollable breaker and based on the one or more operating parameters.

In an illustrative example of processes 2500, the one or more operatingparameters may include a plurality of current limits each correspondingto a respective current of the plurality of currents. If the respectivecurrent is greater than the corresponding current limit, the system maycontrol the respective controllable breaker by opening the respectivecontrollable breaker.

In an illustrative example of processes 2500, the one or more operatingparameters may include a load profile including a schedule for limitinga total electrical load. The system may control each respectivecontrollable breaker further based on the load profile.

In an illustrative example of processes 2500, the one or more operatingparameters may include temporal information. The system may control eachrespective controllable breaker further based on the temporalinformation. For example, the temporal information may include an on-offtime schedule for each breaker (e.g., which may be based on the measuredload in that branch circuit), duration information (e.g., how long abranch circuit will be left on), any other suitable temporalinformation, an estimated time remaining (e.g., during operation onbattery power, or until a pre-scheduled disconnect), or any combinationthereof.

In an illustrative example of processes 2500, the system may (e.g., atstep 2510) detect a fault condition and determine the one or moreoperating parameters based on the fault condition. For example, thesystem may determine a faulted current (e.g., based on measured currentsfrom step 2502), receive a fault indicator (e.g., from user input atstep 2504), receive a fault indicator from a network entity (e.g., fromsystem information at step 2506), receive a fault indicator from anotherdevice (e.g., from step 2508), determine a faulted condition in anyother suitable manner, or any combination thereof.

FIGS. 26-30 show illustrative views and components of electrical panel2600, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. Forexample, panel 2600 is an illustrative example of system 100 of FIG. 1,which may be used to implement any of the illustrative configurationsshown in FIGS. 5-16.

FIG. 26 shows bottom, side, and front views of illustrative panel 2600,in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 27shows a perspective view of illustrative panel 2600, in accordance withsome embodiments of the present disclosure. Panel 2600, as illustrated,includes:

antennae enclosure 2602 (e.g., configured for housing an antennae forreceiving/transmitting communications signals);

gateway 2604 (e.g., control circuitry);

dead-front 2606 (e.g., to provide a recognizable/safe user interface tobreakers); power module 2608 (e.g., for powering components of panel2600 with AC, DC, or both);

main breaker 2610 (e.g. controllable by gateway 2604);

main relay 2612 (e.g., for controlling main power using gateway 2604);

controllable circuit breaker(s) 2614 (e.g., for controlling branchcircuits);

sensor boards 2616 and 2617 (e.g., for measuring current, voltage, orboth, or characteristics thereof, panel 2600 includes two sensorboards);

inner load center 2618 (e.g., including busbars and back-plane); and

power electronics 2620 (e.g., for generating/managing a DC bus, forinterfacing to loads and generation).

In some embodiments, inner load center 2618 of panel 2600 is configuredto accommodate a plurality of controllable circuit breakers 2614,wherein each breaker is communicatively coupled to gateway 2604 (e.g.,either directly or via an interface board). As illustrated, panel 2600includes inner enclosure 2650 and outer enclosure 2651. Outer enclosure2651 may be configured to house power electronics 2620 and any othersuitable components (e.g. away from usual access by a user for safetyconsiderations). In some embodiments, inner enclosure 2650 providesaccess to breaker toggles for a user, as well as access to a userinterface of gateway 2604. To illustrate, conductors (e.g., two singlephase lines 180 degrees out of phase and a neutral, three-phase linesand a neutral, or any other suitable configuration) from a service dropmay be routed to the top of panel 2600 (e.g., an electric meter may beinstalled just above panel 2600), terminating at main breaker 2610. Eachline, and optionally neutral, is then routed to main relay 2612, whichcontrols provision of electrical power to/from inner load center 2618(e.g., busbars thereof). Below main relay 2612, each line is coupled toa respective busbar (e.g., to which controllable circuit breakers 2614may be affixed). In some embodiments, a bus bar may include or beequipped with current sensors such as shunt current sensors, currenttransformers, Rogowski coils, any other suitable current sensors, or anycombination thereof. The neutral may be coupled to a terminal strip,busbar, or any other suitable distribution system (e.g., to provide aneutral to each controllable circuit breaker, branch circuit, currentsensor, or a combination thereof). Sensor boards 2616 and 2617, asillustrated, each include a plurality of current sensors (e.g., eachbranch circuit may have a dedicated current sensor). Sensor boards 2616and 2617 may output analog signals, conditioned analog signals (e.g.,filtered, amplified), digital signals (e.g., including level shifting,digital filtering, of electrical or optical character), any othersuitable output, or any combination thereof.

FIGS. 28A-28D shows several views of sensor board 2616 (e.g., sensorboard 2617 may be identical, similar, or dissimilar to sensor board2616), in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.FIG. 29 shows a perspective view of sensor board 2616, in accordancewith some embodiments of the present disclosure. In reference to FIG.28A shows a top view of sensor board 2616, FIG. 28B shows a side view ofsensor board 2616, FIG. 28C shows an end view of sensor board 2616, andFIG. 28D shows a bottom view of sensor board 2616. As illustrated,sensor board 2616 includes PCB 2691, PCB support 2692 affixed to PCB2691, current sensors 2690 affixed to PCB 2691, indicators 2696 (e.g.,LED indicators), controller ports 2693, power and I/O port 2694, andpower and I/O port 2695. Each current sensor of current sensors 2690includes a passthrough to accommodate a line or neutral to sensecurrent. For example, each current sensor of current sensor 2690 maycorrespond to a branch circuit. In some embodiments, power and I/O ports2694 and 2695 are configured to be coupled to other sensor boards (e.g.,sensor board 2617), a power supply (e.g., power module 2608), gateway2604, any other suitable components, or any combination thereof. In someembodiments, controller port 2693 is configured to interface to controlcircuitry (e.g., of gateway 2604 or otherwise) to receive/, transmit, orboth, communications signals. In some embodiments, ports 2693, 2694, and2695 are configured to communicate analog signals, electric power (e.g.,DC power), digital signals, or any combination thereof.

FIG. 30 shows an exploded perspective view of illustrative panel 2600(i.e., exploded panel 3000), in accordance with some embodiments of thepresent disclosure. Panel 3000 more clearly illustrates components ofpanel 2600.

Some illustrative aspects of the systems described herein are describedbelow. For example, any of the illustrative systems, components, andconfigurations described in the context of FIGS. 1-22, 24, and 26-30 maybe used to implement any of the techniques, processes, and use casesdescribed herein.

In some embodiments, the system (e.g., system 100 of FIG. 1) isconfigured for grid health monitoring; managing energy reserves andpower flow; and integrating ATS/disconnect functionality into a panel. Acircuit breaker panelboard may be designed for connection to both autility grid as well as a battery inverter or other distributed energyresource, and may include one or more switching devices on the circuitconnecting the panelboard to the utility point of connection, one ormore switching devices on the branch circuits serving loads, any othersuitable components, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments,the system includes voltage measurement means connected to all phases ofthe utility grid side of the utility point of connection circuitswitching device, which are in turn connected to logic circuitry capableof determining the status of the utility grid. In some embodiments, thesystem includes one or more logic devices (e.g., control circuitry of agateway) capable of generating a signal to cause the switching device(e.g., main relay 2612 of FIG. 26) to disconnect the panelboard from theutility grid when the utility grid status is unsuitable for powering theloads connected to the panelboard, thereby forming a local electricalsystem island and either passively allows or causes the distributedenergy resource to supply power to this island (e.g., using electricalsignaling or actuation of circuit connected switching devices). In someembodiments, the system includes a preprogrammed selection of branchcircuits, which are capable of being disabled when the local electricalsystem is operating as an island, in order to optimize energyconsumption or maintain the islanded electrical system power consumptionat a low enough level to be supplied by the distributed energy resource.In some embodiments, the system executes logic that generates and/oruses forecasts of branch circuit loads, appliance loads, measurements ofbranch circuit loads (e.g., based on signals from a sensor board), or acombination thereof to dynamically disconnect or reconnect branchcircuits to the distributed energy resource, send electrical signals toappliances on branch circuits enabling or disabling them in order tooptimize energy consumption, maintain the islanded electrical systempower consumption at a low enough level to be supplied by thedistributed energy resource, or a combination thereof. In someembodiments, the system includes an energy reservoir device such as, forexample, one or more capacitors or batteries, capable of maintaininglogic power and switching device actuation power in the period after theutility grid point of connection circuit switching device hasdisconnected the electrical system from the utility grid, and before thedistributed energy resource begins to supply power to the islandedelectrical system, in order to facilitate actuation of point ofconnection and branch circuit switching devices to effect theaforementioned functions.

In some embodiments, the system (e.g., system 100 of FIG. 1) isconfigured to provide hardware safety for phase imbalance or excessivephase voltage in a panelboard serving an islanded electrical system. Insome embodiments, the system includes a circuit breaker panelboard(e.g., panel 2600 of FIG. 26) designed for connection to a batteryinverter or other distributed energy resource. The panelboard may beconfigured to operate in islanded mode, with the served AC electricalsystem disconnected from any utility grid. In some embodiments, adistributed energy resource supplying power to the panelboard isconnected using fewer power conductors (hereafter “conductors”) than theelectrical system served by the panelboard. The panelboard may include atransformer or autotransformer, or be designed for connection to atransformer or autotransformer provided with at least one set ofwindings with terminals equal in number to the number of conductors ofthe electrical system served by the panelboard. In some embodiments, thetransformer is designed to receive power from a connection including thesame number of power conductors as the connection to the distributedenergy resource.

In some embodiments, a panelboard includes a plurality of electronichardware safety features and a plurality of electrical switching devices(e.g., controllable relays and circuit breakers). For example, thesafety features may be designed to monitor either the difference involtage of all of the power conductors of the supplied electricalsystem, designed to monitor the difference in voltage of each of theconductors of the electrical system with respect to a shared returnpower conductor (“neutral”), or both. The system (e.g., controlcircuitry thereof) may monitor voltages, hereafter termed “phasevoltages,” or a suitable combination of monitoring of difference involtages and phase voltages such that the power supply voltage to alldevices served by the electrical system is thereby monitored.

In some embodiments, the system (e.g., system 100 of FIG. 1) includessafety features configured to maintain a safe state when subjected to asingle point component or wiring fault. For example, the safety featuresmay be configured to entirely break the connection between thedistributed energy resource and the panelboard if conditions that couldlead to excessive voltages being supplied to any load served by thepanelboard are detected. In a further example, a panelboard connected toa 240V battery inverter having two terminals with correspondingconductors. In some embodiments, the panelboard includes anautotransformer having two windings and three terminals, and isconfigured to serve an islanded electrical system of the 120V/240V splitphase type. This configuration, for example, includes three conductorsthat are used to supply two 120V circuits with respect to a sharedneutral conductor, each of the 120V conductors being supplied with power180 degrees out of phase with respect to the other. In some suchembodiments, the panelboard includes one or more of the following:

(1) A single phase 240V battery inverter containing an overvoltagedetection circuit, which disables output of the inverter when excessivevoltages are detected.

(2) A central voltage imbalance detector circuit, which sends a signalwhen an imbalance in phase voltage is detected.

(3) Two separate actuation circuits associated with two separateswitching devices, each switching device being in circuit with thebattery inverter.

(4) Two voltage amplitude detector circuits, one associated with eachswitching device, and each monitoring one phase of the electricalsystem.

(5) Actuation circuits configured to disconnect the associated switchingdevice if either the central voltage imbalance detector signal istransmitted, or an excessive voltage associated with the monitoredelectrical system phase is detected, or if the logic power supply to theactuation circuit is lost.

(6) Optionally, an energy reservoir associated with each actuationcircuit, to enable each actuation circuit to take the action needed todisconnect the switching device after loss of logic power supply to theactuation circuit, especially if the switching device is bi-stable.

In some embodiments, the system (e.g., system 100 of FIG. 1) includes aplurality of metering circuits connected to control circuitry (e.g., agateway) that monitor current transducers associated with one busbar(e.g., included in a sensor board). In some embodiments, an electricalpanelboard includes at least one power distribution conductor (hereafter“bus bar” and referring to any rigid or flexible power distributionconductors) that distributes power to multiple branch circuits. Forexample, each branch circuit may include one or more current transducerssuch as current measurement shunts, non-isolated current transformers,non-isolated Rogowski coils, any other suitable current sensor, or anycombination thereof (e.g., using sensor board 2616 of FIG. 26 or anyother suitable sensor system). In some embodiments, all branch circuitsassociated with a given bus bar are monitored by a plurality of meteringcircuits that each measure current or power associated with a givenbranch circuit or set of branch circuits (e.g., using sensor board 2616of FIG. 26 or any other suitable sensor system). The metering circuitsmay be connected together without need for galvanic isolation, and themetering circuits may include, for example, a system of common modefilters, differential amplifiers, or both. For example, meteringcircuits including one or more filters or filter systems may be able toproduce accurate results from the signals generated by the currenttransducers even in the presence of transient or steady state voltagedifferences existing between the transducers of each branch circuitserved by the bus bar. Such differences may result from voltagedifferences associated with current flow through the resistive orinductive impedance of the bus bar and branch circuit system, and may becoupled to the current transducers either by direct galvanic connectionor capacitive coupling, parasitic or intentional.

In the present disclosure, “non-isolated” is understood to mean thecondition which exists between two electrical conductors either whenthey are in direct electrical contact, or when any insulation or spacingbetween them is of insufficient strength or size to provide for thefunctional or safety design requirements which would be needed if one ofthe conductors were energized by an electric potential associated with aconductor in the electrical system served by the panelboard, and theother conductor were to be either left floating, or connected to adifferent potential served by the electrical system.

In some embodiments, metering circuits (e.g., which transmit sensorsignals) share a common logic or low voltage power supply system. Insome embodiments, metering circuits share a non-isolated communicationmedium. In some embodiments, metering circuits are collocated on asingle printed circuit board (e.g., sensor board 2616 of FIG. 26), whichis physically close to the bus bar and is sized similarly in length tothe bus bar, and in which a printed low voltage power distributionconductor associated with the metering circuits is electricallyconnected to the bus bar at a single central point, near the middle ofthe length of the bus bar. In some embodiments, a power supply system isgalvanically bonded to the bus bar at one or more points.

In some embodiments, a system (e.g., system 100 of FIG. 1) includes anelectrical connection to the bus bar that is made using a pair ofresistance elements (e.g., resistors) connected between the printedpower distribution conductor and each of the leads associated with asingle current measurement shunt type of current transducer (e.g., whicheach serve one of the branch circuits). For example, the transducer maybe arranged near the middle of the length of the bus bar. Further, theresistance elements may be sized such that any current flow through themcaused by the potential drop across the shunt transducer is negligiblein comparison to the resistance of the shunt and the resistances of anyconnecting conductors that connect the shunt to the resistances, so asnot to materially affect the signal voltage produced by the transducerwhen said current flows.

In some embodiments, a pair of systems (e.g., two instances of system100 of FIG. 1, which may be but need not be similarly configured) ashave been previously described are included, with one system beingassociated with each line voltage bus bar of a split phase 120V/240Velectrical panelboard. In some embodiments, each of the systems isconnected to a central communication device or computing device (e.g.,including control circuitry) by means of a galvanically isolatedcommunications link, and in which each system is served by a separate,galvanically isolated power supply

FIG. 31 shows a block diagram of a system including illustrativeelectrical panel 3110 having relays, in accordance with some embodimentsof the present disclosure. An AC source, such as an AC service drop 3101includes one or more electrical conductors configured to transmit ACpower. As illustrated in FIG. 31, service drop 3101 includes a neutral(e.g., a grounded neutral), a first line (e.g., L1 that is 120 VAC), anda second line (e.g., L2 that is 120 VAC and 180 degrees out of phasewith L1). The service drop lines are coupled to electrical meter 3102,which is configured to sense, record, or both electrical power usage andgeneration. For example, electrical meter 3102 may include current andvoltage sensors that are used to determine usage. The L1 and L2 linesare coupled to main contactor 3111, which is used to disconnectcomponents of electrical panel 3110 from AC service drop 3101 (e.g., forsafety, service, or component installation). For example, asillustrated, main contactor 3111 may be a two pole, single throwcontactor, configured to disconnect both L1 and L2 from the rest ofelectrical panel 3110. Main relays 3112 and 3122 are configured tocouple respective L1 and L2 to respective busbars 3113 and 3123. In someembodiments, main relays 3112 and 3122 are communicatively coupled tocontrol circuitry 3130, and accordingly may be actuated open or closedby control circuitry 3130. For example, main relays 3112 and 3122 mayinclude control terminals configured to be coupled to control circuitry3130, and current carrying terminals configured to conduct current fromL1 and L2. Main relays 3112 and 3122 may include, for example,solenoid-based relays, solid state relays, any other suitable type ofrelay, or any combination thereof. Busbars 3113 and 3123 are eachconfigured to interface to a coupled to a plurality of relays andsensors, which in turn are coupled to corresponding circuit breakers. Insome embodiments, busbars 3113 and 3123 distribute lines L1 and L2 to aplurality of respective relays 3114 and 3124 having integrated currentsensors. For example, busbar 3113 may be engaged with a plurality ofrelays 3114 having a measurement current shunt included. Voltagemeasurement leads may be coupled to the current shunt (e.g., having aknown and precise resistance or impedance), and also coupled to controlcircuitry 3130 for voltage measurements (e.g., real-time voltagemeasurements across the respective shunts to determine real-time currentflow). In an illustrative example, the current shunt may include a stripof metal having a precise geometry, or otherwise precisely knownelectrical resistance. In some embodiments, control circuitry 3130 isconfigured to open and close relays 3114 and 3124, as well as readvoltage drops across current shunts. Breakers 3115 and 3125 may includecircuit breakers configured to provide mechanical circuitry breaking, ormanual circuit breaking. For example, breakers 3115 and 3125 areaccessible by a user to reset, shut off, and observe (e.g., observe iftripped). Breakers 3115 engage with relays 3114 and breakers 3125 engagewith relays 3124. The output of breakers 3115 and 3125 are lines L1 andL2, available to be coupled to the wiring and load of the site (e.g.,load 3140), for example.

In an illustrative example, referencing FIG. 31, electrical panel 3110may be a “main” panel for a residence. The electrical utility mayprovide, manage or specify requirements of service drop 3101 (ordistribution lines coupled thereto), electrical meter 3102 (e.g., recordusage from meter 3102 at some schedule), or both. Electrical panel mayinclude main contractor 3111 near the top of the panel, with main relays3112 and 3122 arranged behind (e.g., deeper into the wall, as viewed bya user) main contactor 3111.

In an illustrative example, referencing FIG. 31, electrical panel 3110may be retrofitted into a residential electrical system, displacing aconventional panel. In some embodiments, main contactor 3111 (or mainbreaker in some embodiments), main relays 3112 and 3122, busbars 3113and 3123, and branch relays 3114 and 3124, are installed on a backingplate. In some such embodiments, a dead-front panel is installed tocover the relay components and busbars, with only bus bar tabs exposedthus providing access for breakers to be engaged with the relay-switchedbusbars.

In some embodiments, one or more relays are included in a panel, and arecontrollable by control circuitry 3130. In some such embodiments, thesystem is configured for mechanical circuit breaking (e.g., from circuitbreakers), controlled circuit breaking (e.g., from relays), circuitshut-off and reset (e.g., from circuit breakers, relays, or both), or acombination thereof. For example, a user may interact with electricalpanel 3110 manually (e.g., by opening or closing breakers), via anintegrated user interface (e.g., a touchscreen or touchpad), via asoftware application (e.g., installed on a smart phone or other userdevice), or any combination thereof.

FIG. 32 shows a block diagram of system 3200 including an illustrativeelectrical panel having relays 3210 and shunt current sensors 3220, inaccordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. Asillustrated, system 3200 includes main breaker 3201, main currentsensors 3202, main relay 3203, lines 3204 and 3205 (e.g., L1 and L2),shunts 3220 and 3221, relays 3230 and 3231, breakers 3240 and 3241,shunts 3290 and 3291, relays 3297 and 3292, breakers 3298 and 3293,autotransformer 3299, inverter 3294, relay drive override 3280, andphase imbalance monitor 3270.

A first branch includes line 3204 (e.g., L1), with shunt current sensors3220, relays 3230, and breakers 3240 coupled in series for each branchcircuit. Similarly, a second branch includes line 3205 (e.g., L2), withshunt current sensors 3221, relays 3231, and breakers 3241 coupled inseries for each branch circuit. Also coupled to lines 3204 and 3205 areshunt current sensors 3290, relays 3297, breakers 3298, andautotransformer 3299, as well as shunt current sensors 3291, relays3292, breakers 3293, and inverter 3294. Relay driver override 3280 iscoupled to each of relays 3297, 3292, and phase imbalance monitor 3270.

FIGS. 33A-42 show illustrative examples of components and aspects of anelectrical panel, in accordance with some embodiments of the presentdisclosure. For example, the illustrative components shown in FIGS.33A-42 may be included in an electrical panel such as electrical panel3110 of FIG. 31, electrical panel 3200 of FIG. 32, or any other suitableelectrical panel.

FIG. 33A shows a front view, FIG. 33B shows a side view, and FIG. 33Cshows a bottom view of an illustrative assembly including a backingplate with branch relays and control boards installed, in accordancewith some embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 34 showsperspective view 3400 and exploded view 3450 of the illustrate assemblyof FIGS. 33A-33C, with some components labeled, in accordance with someembodiments of the present disclosure. As illustrated, eight branchrelays 3310 are installed on backing plate 3303 (e.g., in a 4×2arrangement), with first terminal 3312 of each branch relay 3310 securedto a busbar (e.g., busbar 3301 or busbar 3302), and second terminal 3311of each branch relay 3310 extending outwards (e.g., in the side view,towards a user to the left). For example, as illustrated first terminals3312 are secured by threaded fasteners (e.g., nuts threaded onto studssuch as pem studs). A plurality of wires 3355 connect branch relays 3310to corresponding connectors 3356 of a corresponding control board (e.g.,control board 3350 or control board 3351, although in some embodiments,a single board may be used). For example, wires 3355 may be configuredto transmit control signals from control boards 3350 and 3351 to eachrelay 3310 to cause the relay to open or close a circuit. In a furtherexample, wires 3355 may be configured to transmit sensor signals (e.g.,voltage signals) from a current shunt integrated into each relay 3310 tocontrol boards 3350 and 3351 (e.g., which may determine current based onthe voltage drop across the shunt). In some embodiments, backing plate3303 is configured to be mounted to an electrical enclosure, to abuilding structure, included in an electrical assembly, or a combinationthereof. As illustrated, each of control boards 3350 and 3351 includesfour connectors 3356, although any suitable number of control boards maybe included (e.g., one, two, or more than two, and each control boardmay include any suitable number of connectors, electrical terminals, orelectrical interfaces. As illustrated in FIG. 34, second terminals 3311are also referred to herein as “branch breaker tabs,” control boards3350 and 3351 are also referred to herein as “Column PCBs” or controlcircuitry, and backing plate 3303 is also referred to herein as a “mainbus housing.” In some embodiments, each of control boards 3350 and 3351may be electrically coupled to a central controller, which may includecontrol circuitry, a user interface, a communications interface, memory,any other suitable components, or any combination thereof. For example,each of control boards 3350 and 3351 may be connected via a cable (e.g.,having suitable terminating connectors), terminated wires, or both tothe controller. As illustrated in FIG. 34, main busbars 3301 and 3302are included, which may correspond to two different AC lines (e.g., L1and L2 of a utility service drop). It will be understood that althoughshown as coupled to control boards 3350 and 3351, wires 3355 that arecoupled to branch relays 3310 may be coupled to a central controllerhaving control circuitry, and accordingly control boards 3350 and 3351need not be included. Control boards 3350 and 3351 may include controlcircuitry, be installed intermediately between branch relays 3310 and acentral controller, or may be omitted entirely. It will be understoodthat control boards 3350, 3351, or both may provide any suitablefunctionality and may include, for example, a current sensing board, asensor board, and interface board, a PCB, any other suitable controlcircuitry, or any combination thereof. For example, a control board maybe configured to receive sensor signals, provide control signals,execute a feedback control loop, condition signals (e.g., amplify,filter, or modulate), convert signals, generate signals, manage electricpower, receive and transmit digital signals, any other suitablefunction, or any combination thereof. It will be understood that acontrol board may provide any suitable functionality and may include,for example, a current sensing board, a sensor board, and interfaceboard, a PCB, any other suitable control circuitry, or any combinationthereof. For example, a control board may be configured to receivesensor signals, provide control signals, execute a feedback controlloop, condition signals (e.g., amplify, filter, or modulate), convertsignals, generate signals, manage electric power, receive and transmitdigital signals, any other suitable function, or any combinationthereof.

FIG. 35A shows a front view, FIG. 35B shows a side view, FIG. 35C showsa bottom view, and FIG. 35D shows a perspective view of an illustrativeassembly including backing plate 3303 with branch relays 3310 andcontrol boards 3350 an 3351 installed, deadfront 3330 installed, andcircuit breakers 3320 installed, in accordance with some embodiments ofthe present disclosure. Circuit breakers 3320 engage with secondterminals 3311 of branch relays 3310 to create a branch circuit.

FIG. 36A shows a front view, FIG. 36B shows a side view, FIG. 36C showsa bottom view, and FIG. 36D shows a perspective view of an illustrativeassembly including backing plate 3303 with branch relays 3310 andcontrol boards 3350 and 3351 installed, deadfront 3330 installed, andcircuit breakers 3320 installed, wherein the branch relay sensor andcontrol wires 3357 are illustrated, in accordance with some embodimentof the present disclosure. As illustrated, the assembly of FIGS. 36A-36Dis the same as the assembly of FIGS. 35A-35D, with sensor and relaycontrol wires 3357 added in FIGS. 36A-36D. For example, each branchrelay 3310 may include three control terminals, configured to allowtwo-way actuation of the control coil (e.g., for solenoid actuatedrelays). In some embodiments, the sensing wires and relay control wires3357 (e.g., from the current shunt and sense pins and actuator pins) maybe, but need not be, terminated at a single connector. For example, asillustrated, a single connector 3356 is included for each branch relay3310.

FIG. 37A shows an exploded perspective view of the illustrative assemblyof FIGS. 36A-36D, and FIG. 37B shows an exploded side view of theillustrative assembly of FIGS. 36A-36D, with some components labeled, inaccordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. In someembodiments, each of branch relays 3310 may include electrical terminalsconfigured to engage with an electrical connector (e.g., of a wiringharness), to engage with individual terminating connectors of a wirebundle or cable, to be soldered to, any other suitable electricalinterface, or any combination thereof. For example, installer deadfront3330, neutral bar(s) 3304, and branch circuit breakers 3320 may be addedto the assembly of FIGS. 33A-34 to create the assembly of FIGS. 36A-37B.In some embodiments, installer deadfront 3330 is installed to hidebranch relays 3310 from a user, prevent access to branch relays 3310 bya user, or otherwise provide a simplified interface to a user. Forexample, a user can interact with, replace, install, and view branchcircuit breakers 3320 without having access to branch relays 3310, whichare controllable by control boards 3350 and 3351, as illustrated. In afurther example, neutral bars 3304 (e.g., coupled to a Neutral of autility service drop) may secured to installer deadfront 3330 and mayinclude screw terminals for affixing neutral wires. Branch circuitbreakers 3320 may be installed, and be electrically coupled to secondterminals 3311 of each branch relay 3310 to provide protected AC power.For example, each branch circuit breaker 3320 includes a terminal towhich a wire may be secured (e.g., to provide AC voltage). An outerdeadfront (not shown) may be installed to cover branch circuit breakers3320, providing access only to circuit breaker toggles 3321, which auser may interact with. As illustrated in FIGS. 36A-36D, each of branchcircuit breakers 3320 may engage with a busbar (e.g., busbar 3301 orbusbar 3302) and a neutral bar (e.g., either of neutral bars 3304), andmay include corresponding terminals (e.g., line and neutral) to whichbranch circuit wiring may be terminated. In some embodiments, each ofbranch circuit breakers 3320 may engage busbar 3301 or 3302 and includea single output terminal, and the corresponding neutral wire mayterminate at a neutral bus bar (e.g., neutral bar 3304) having a screwterminal, for example. Any suitable type of branch circuit breaker 3320may be included (e.g., a manual breaker, a controllable breaker, acheater breaker, a di-pole breaker), having any suitable capacity oroperating characteristics, in accordance with some embodiments of thepresent disclosure. An assembly may include backing plate 3303, busbars3301 and 3302, a relay layer (e.g., an array of branch relays 3310affixed to busbars 3301 or 3302), a deadfront layer (e.g., deadfront3330), a circuit breaker layer (e.g., an array of branch circuitbreakers 3320 each affixed to busbars 3301 or 3302), and a customerdeadfront layer (not shown), all arranged in an electrical enclosure.

FIG. 38A shows a front view, FIG. 38B shows a side view, FIG. 38C showsa bottom view, FIG. 38D shows a perspective view, FIG. 38E shows aperspective exploded view, and FIG. 38F shows a side exploded view of anillustrative assembly including relay housing 3830 with main relay 3810installed, main breaker 3820 installed, and busbars 3801 and 3802, inaccordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. Main relay3810 includes two first terminals coupled to two respective busbars 3801and 3802 (e.g., L1 and L2). Main relay 3810 also includes two secondterminals coupled to two respective terminals of main breaker 3820(e.g., corresponding to L1 and L2). Main breaker 3820 is coupled to L1and L2 from an electrical meter, for example. Main relay 3810 may alsobe referred to as an “islanding relay,” because it is configured todisconnect the panel and panel circuits from the AC source (e.g., autility service drop). As illustrated, current sensors 3811 (e.g.,current transformers or any other suitable current sensor) are installedon each of L1 and L2 to sense currents in the AC lines. For example, thecurrent sensors may be coupled to control circuitry via wires such thatthe control circuitry may determine the current in either or both of L1and L2 (e.g., instantaneous, averaged or otherwise derived current). Thetwo cable portions 3899 illustrated in FIGS. 38A-38D include sensorwires corresponding to the solid core current transformers.

FIG. 39 shows a perspective view of illustrative branch relay 3900, inaccordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. Breaker tab3920 is the secondary terminal (e.g., secondary terminal 3311 of FIGS.33A-34, to which a branch circuit breaker (e.g., one of branch circuitbreakers 3320 of FIGS. 35A-37B) is electrically coupled. Main bus tab3911 is the first terminal (e.g., first terminal 3312 of FIGS. 33A-34),which is secured to a busbar. Shunt sense pins 3950 may provideelectrical terminals to which wires may be affixed (e.g., crimped,soldered, clamped, or otherwise) for measuring a voltage differenceacross shunt 3960 (e.g., which includes a precise, or precisely known,resistive element). Sense pin 3951 may provide electrical terminals towhich a wire may be affixed (e.g., crimped, soldered, clamped, orotherwise) for measuring a voltage at the output of branch relay 3900(e.g., just before the corresponding branch circuit breaker). Forexample, sense pin 3951 and shunt sense pins 3950 may be coupled tocontrol circuitry to determine a state of branch relay 3900, anoperating condition of branch relay 3900, or any other suitableinformation about branch relay 3900. Main bus tab 3911 is configured tobe secured to a stud of a busbar or a bolt affixed to a busbar. Shunt3960 may include any suitable material (e.g., a metal or metal alloysuch as manganin, a metallic wound wire, a thin dielectric, a carbonfilm), having any suitable electrical properties (e.g., resistance,impedance, and temperature dependence thereof) and any suitable geometry(e.g., flat, cylindrical, wound, a thin film with electrodes) formeasuring an electrical current.

FIG. 40 shows a perspective view of illustrative branch relay 3900 andcircuit breaker 4020, in accordance with some embodiments of the presentdisclosure. Branch circuit breaker 4020 is secured to breaker tab 3920(e.g., a second terminal). For example, branch circuit breaker 4020 mayinclude a clamp mechanism that clamps breaker tab 3920, thus maintainingelectrical contact between branch circuit breaker 4020 and branch relay3900. In some embodiments, a deadfront (not shown) may physicallyseparate branch circuit breaker 4020 from branch relay 3900, except foropenings where breaker tab 3920 protrudes.

FIG. 41 shows an exploded perspective view of illustrative panel 4100having branch circuits, in accordance with some embodiments of thepresent disclosure. As illustrated, no installer deadfront is includedin panel 4200, although a deadfront may optionally be included. Forexample, main busbars 4101 and 4102 may include respective current shuntin the branch extensions (e.g., the structures extending inward to whichbranch relays 4110 are secured). In a further example, main busbars 4101and 4102 may include a comb-like structure as illustrated in FIG. 41,and each extension configured to secure one of branch relays 4110, whichmay include a current shunt with sense pins or terminals to determine abranch current based on voltage drop across the shunt. In someembodiments, each of branch relays 4110 may include electrical terminalsconfigured to engage with an electrical connector (e.g., of a wiringharness), to engage with individual terminating connectors of a wirebundle or cable, to be soldered to, any other suitable electricalinterface, or any combination thereof. Branch circuit breakers 4120 maybe installed, and be electrically coupled to second terminals of eachbranch relay 4110 to provide protected AC power. For example, eachbranch circuit breaker 4120 includes a terminal to which a wire may besecured (e.g., to provide AC voltage). An outer deadfront (not shown)may be installed to cover branch circuit breakers 4120, providing accessonly to circuit breaker toggles 4121, which a user may interact with. Insome embodiments, each of branch circuit breakers 4120 may engage busbar4101 or 4102 and include a single output terminal, and the correspondingneutral wire may terminate at a neutral bus bar having a screw terminal,for example. Any suitable type of branch circuit breaker 4120 may beincluded (e.g., a manual breaker, a controllable breaker, a cheaterbreaker, a di-pole breaker), having any suitable capacity or operatingcharacteristics, in accordance with some embodiments of the presentdisclosure. An assembly may include backing plate 4103, busbars 4101 and4102, a relay layer (e.g., an array of branch relays 4110 affixed tobusbars 4101 or 4102), a deadfront layer (e.g., not shown), a circuitbreaker layer (e.g., an array of branch circuit breakers 4120 eachaffixed to busbars 4101 or 4102), and a customer deadfront layer (notshown), all arranged in an electrical enclosure. In some embodiments, asillustrated, wires 4155 may be configured to transmit sensor signals(e.g., voltage signals) from a current shunt integrated into each relay4110 to control boards 4150 and 4151 (e.g., which may determine currentbased on the voltage drop across the shunt). In some embodiments, asillustrated, wires 4155 may be configured to transmit relay controlsignals from control boards 4150 and 4151 to suitable terminals ofbranch relays 4110.

FIG. 42 shows a perspective view of illustrative installed panel 4200having branch circuits 4220, a main breaker 4208, and autotransformer4290, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.Several components are not shown in FIG. 42 for clarity including, forexample, a customer deadfront, a panel front, incoming conduit and AClines, and outgoing branch circuit conduits and corresponding wires. Insome embodiments, electrical panel 4200 is configured to be installed ina residential structure (e.g., between sixteen-inch-spaced walltwo-by-fours 4280). As illustrated, main lines L1 and L2, and theneutral line are introduced through the top of panel 4200 (e.g., inconduit coupled to a knockout in the panel top), from an electricalmeter. The main lines are then routed to main breaker 4208, to the mainrelays (not shown), to the main busbars, to the branch relays havingshunts, to the branch circuit breakers, and finally to the branchcircuits (e.g., the residential wiring and outlets and ultimatelyelectrical loads). As illustrated, autotransformer 4270 is included, andcoupled to an external device (not shown). The external device mayinclude an inverter (e.g., from a solar PV installation) or othernon-grid AC source. In some embodiments, the autotransformer has a fixedwinding ratio (e.g., a fixed voltage ratio). In some embodiments,autotransformer 4270 has a variable and controllable winding ratio(e.g., a variable voltage ratio). For example, autotransformer 4270 maybe coupled to the main busbars and neural line via relays. Whengrid-connected, autotransformer 4270 may be disconnected from thebusbars and neutral. When islanding, main relays and/or breaker 4208 maybe opened, and autotransformer 4270 relays are closed, thus electricallycoupling the branch circuit neutrals to an inverter neutral, andcoupling the main busbars to lines of the inverter with suitable voltageconversion at the autotransformer.

Computer 4240 illustrated in FIG. 42 includes control circuitryconfigured to manage and control aspects of the electrical panel. Forexample, computer 4240 may be configured to control the throw positionof one or more main relays (e.g., coupled to main breaker 4208), one ormore branch relays, any other suitable relay or controllable switch, orany combination thereof (e.g., of branch circuits 4220). In a furtherexample, computer 4240 may be configured to receive analog signals froma sense pin (e.g., to determine a state of a relay), shunt sense pin(e.g., to determine a current), a current sensor (e.g., to determine acurrent), a voltage sensor (e.g., to determine a voltage), a temperaturesensor (e.g., to determine a surface, component, or environmentaltemperature), any other suitable signal, or any combination thereof.Computer 4240 may include a power supply, a power converter (e.g., aDC-DC, AC-AC, DC-AC, or AC-DC converter), a digital I/O interface (e.g.,connectors, pins, headers, or cable pigtails), an analog-to-digitalconverter, a signal conditioner (e.g., an amplifier, a filter, amodulation), a network controller, a user interface (e.g., a displaydevice, a touchscreen, a keypad), memory (e.g., solid state memory, ahard drive, or other memory), a processor configured to executeprogrammed computer instructions, any other suitable equipment, or anycombination thereof. In some embodiments, panel 4200 of FIG. 42 includesone or more control boards coupled to branch relays, main relays, andthe computer. In some embodiments, computer 4240 is coupled directly tobranch relays, main relays, sensors, any other suitable components ofthe panel, or any combination thereof.

In an illustrative example, in the context of FIGS. 31-42, an electricalpanel may allow branch circuit monitoring. In some embodiments,high-accuracy branch circuit monitoring may be achieved, because eachcircuit is populated with an integrated shunt (e.g., with a calibratedresistive element) configured to measure the current flowing througheach circuit. Electrical power in each branch circuit may be determinedbased on the current and voltage. For each branch circuit, thisfunctionality provides the ability to perform in-line measurement ofreal power, reactive power, energy, any other suitable parameters, orany combination thereof. In some embodiments, for the mains (e.g., L1and L2) entering the panel, high-accuracy solid-core current sensors(e.g., current shunts) are assembled on each busbar to provide energymetering on each branch circuit (e.g., whole-home metering). In someembodiments, the control boards are designed to accommodatepre-assembled shunts, split-core CT inputs (e.g., to measure retrofittedPV circuits, sub-panel, or other similar devices connected to thepanel), or both.

In an illustrative example, in the context of FIGS. 31-42, an electricalpanel may allow branch circuit control. In some embodiments, each branchcircuit is fitted with a controllable relay that is directly mounted ona main busbar thus allowing for individual circuit level controls. Insome embodiments, the branch relay's inputs allow for easy installationwithin an electrical panel and the breaker tabs are designed toaccommodate standard molded-case circuit breakers. In some embodiments,each relay is actuated independently and in real-time by controlcircuitry, thus allowing for software-defined load controls within thepanel. In some embodiments, relays are designed such that the onlyexposed component of the panel to the installer is the breaker tab wherethe branch circuit breaker is mounted (e.g., the installer deadfronthides the remaining portion of the relay). In some embodiments, thebranch relay breaker tab is provided with a sense pin configured todetect the throw position of the relay in real-time (e.g., on or offbased on the voltage at the sense pin). A relay may have any suitablerating, capacity, or operating characteristics, in accordance with someembodiments of the present disclosure. In an illustrative example, abranch relay may be rated to 90A (e.g., higher than a typicalresidential circuit or circuit breaker), which allows for the branchcircuit breaker to operate normally as the passive safety device.

In an illustrative example, in the context of FIGS. 31-42, an electricalpanel may have an architecture that allows branch level sensing andactuation. In some embodiments, the branch level sensing and actuationis achieved using a control board. In some embodiments, the controlboard is configured to receive analog signals from a plurality of shuntresistors. In some embodiments, the control board may include relaydrivers configured to receive control signals from control circuitry(e.g., low-voltage DC signals generated by a gateway computer). Acontrol board may include an analog-to-digital converter, a digital I/Ointerface, a power supply or power conversion module, any other suitablecomponents or functionality, or any combination thereof. In someembodiments, an electrical panel includes two control boards, arrangedone on either side of the interior of the panel and each with theability to manage a plurality of circuits (e.g., simultaneously). Forexample, a panel may include twenty circuit branches on each side of thepanel. In some embodiments, a busbar configuration allows forinter-changing lines L1 and L2 connections, making it possible toconnect a di-pole breaker (e.g., for a 240 VAC branch coupled to both L1and L2). In some embodiments, one or more control boards and associatedcontrol logic allow for configuring current sensors and relay actuatorsin groups or clusters. For example, a relatively large load connected toa di-pole breaker could be configured to be treated as a single branchfor the purposes of energy metering and load controls. In someembodiments, control boards are connected to a main board (e.g., acarrier board) that is capable of performing additional computations aswell as supporting software applications.

In an illustrative example, in the context of FIGS. 31-42, an electricalpanel may include one or more autotransformer (e.g., a single windingtransformer). Many solar/hybrid inverters require an externalautotransformer to provide a neutral reference for phase-balanced loads.In some embodiments, an electrical panel includes an autotransformerthat is enabled/sourced (e.g., through a pair of relays) during off-gridoperations (e.g., when islanding). In some embodiments, the controlcircuitry may include control logic that ensures that theautotransformer is only connected to one or more busbars during off-gridoperations. In some embodiments, an electrical panel is designed toprovide suitable cooling for an autotransformer. For example, coolingmay be achieved by passive or active cooling elements such as fins,fans, heat exchangers, any other suitable components, or any combinationthereof. An autotransformer may include a fixed primary-secondaryvoltage ratio, or may include a variable primary-secondary voltageratio. In an illustrative example, a solar PV inverter may provide afirst AC voltage, which may be reduced by the autotransformer to matchthe line-neutral voltage between a busbar and the neutral of the panel.Accordingly, the solar PV system need not output the same AC voltage asrequired by electrical loads.

In an illustrative example, in the context of FIGS. 31-42, an electricalpanel may include one or more busbars. Each busbar may be designed toeasily couple to a main breaker and a main relay, as well as a pluralityof branch circuit breakers through a plurality of branch relays havingcorresponding shunt resistors. In some embodiments, a busbar may includeor having installed with threaded studs (e.g., pem studs) to allow foreasy alignment and assembly with each branch relay while ensuring thatthe L1, L2 configuration inside a panel is preserved (e.g., to meetindustry standards). In some embodiments, a busbar is designed withterminals (e.g., spring terminals or screw terminals) to allow devicessuch as sub-panels to be powered from the panel without the need forbranch circuit breakers.

In an illustrative example, in the context of FIGS. 31-42, an electricalpanel may include one or more deadfronts. In some embodiments, thesensing and relay actuation mechanism and control boards are assembledunderneath an installer deadfront to ensure that the installationprocess is simplified/modular. In some embodiments, a neutral bar ismounted on the installer deadfront to allow plug-on neutral breakers toboth be aligned with and serve as a path of current return for eachcircuit. In some embodiments, the only exposed portions of the relaysare the breaker tabs to which the branch circuit breakers are mountedto. In some embodiments, an electrical panel includes a customerdeadfront that goes in front of the breakers and the load wiring whichonly exposes the breaker toggles to the customer (e.g., a panel may, butneed not, include an installer deadfront and a customer deadfront). Insome embodiments, a status light for each branch circuit is embedded onthe customer deadfront for ease of debugging the system as well asproviding visual feedback on the status of individual circuits. Forexample, a plurality of LEDs may be included on the deadfront, and theLEDs may be wired to control circuitry configured to turn the LEDs onand off. In a further example, LEDs may include LEDs of differentcolors, size, or shape configured to indicate various states of thepanel or circuits coupled thereto.

The foregoing is merely illustrative of the principles of thisdisclosure and various modifications may be made by those skilled in theart without departing from the scope of this disclosure. The abovedescribed embodiments are presented for purposes of illustration and notof limitation. The present disclosure also can take many forms otherthan those explicitly described herein. Accordingly, it is emphasizedthat this disclosure is not limited to the explicitly disclosed methods,systems, and apparatuses, but is intended to include variations to andmodifications thereof, which are within the spirit of the followingclaims. For example, any of the illustrative electrical panels,components, assemblies, configurations, use cases, techniques, andmethods of the present disclosure may be combined, implemented together,implemented in concert, omitted, or otherwise modified, in accordancewith the present disclosure.

The foregoing is merely illustrative of the principles of thisdisclosure and various modifications may be made by those skilled in theart without departing from the scope of this disclosure. The abovedescribed embodiments are presented for purposes of illustration and notof limitation. The present disclosure also can take many forms otherthan those explicitly described herein. Accordingly, it is emphasizedthat this disclosure is not limited to the explicitly disclosed methods,systems, and apparatuses, but is intended to include variations to andmodifications thereof, which are within the spirit of the followingclaims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A system comprising: at least one busbarconfigured to be coupled to at least one AC line; a plurality of branchrelays each comprising a first terminal coupled to the at least onebusbar and a second terminal configured to be coupled to a respectivecircuit breaker; and a plurality of current sensors each correspondingto at least one respective branch relay of the plurality of branchrelays.
 2. The system of claim 1, further comprising: a deadfrontarranged in front of the plurality of branch relays, the deadfrontcomprising: a plurality of openings corresponding to the plurality ofbranch relays allowing an electrical terminal of each branch relay toprotrude forward through a respective opening.
 3. The system of claim 1,wherein the plurality of current sensors comprises: at least one shuntintegrated with a branch relay of the plurality of branch relays,wherein the at least one shunt is configured to exhibit a voltage dropwhen a current flows through the shunt; at least one sensor wire coupledto the shunt and configured to transmit a sensor signal to controlcircuitry indicative of the current.
 4. The system of claim 1, furthercomprising: an autotransformer comprising: at least one primary lead anda neutral, and at least one secondary lead; at least one autotransformerline relay coupling the at least one secondary lead to the at least onebusbar and configured to be closed during islanding and open when the atleast one busbar is grid-connected; and at least one autotransformerneutral relay coupling the neutral to a neutral bar and configured to beclosed during islanding and open when the at least one neutral bar isgrid-connected.
 5. The system of claim 1, further comprising: a mainswitch configured to be coupled to an AC line and to the at least onebusbar; and a main relay arranged in-line with the main switch.
 6. Thesystem of claim 1, further comprising control circuitry coupled to: atleast one main relay, the plurality of branch relays, and the pluralityof current sensors, the control circuitry configured to: control anon-off state of the at least one main relay; control an on-off state ofthe plurality of branch relays; and determine a current corresponding toeach branch relay based at least in part on the plurality of currentsensors.
 7. The system of claim 1, wherein the control circuitry furthercomprises communications equipment configured to communicate with anetwork or a mobile device.
 8. The system of claim 7, wherein thecommunications equipment is configured to transmit energy information.9. The system of claim 5, wherein each branch relay of the plurality ofbranch relays is coupled to a respective circuit, and wherein thecontrol circuitry is further configured to monitor usage of eachrespective circuit.
 10. The system of claim 1, further comprising anAC-DC inverter coupled to the at least one busbar, wherein the AC-DCinverter is configured to manage a DC bus.
 11. The system of claim 10,further comprising a DC-DC converted configured to manage a second DCbus.
 12. The system of claim 10, wherein the DC bus is configured to becoupled to a solar PV system.
 13. The system of claim 10, wherein the DCbus is configured to be coupled to an energy storage device.
 14. Thesystem of claim 1, further comprising an electrical vehicle chargingstation coupled to a first controllable breaker of the respectivecontrollable breakers.
 15. The system of claim 1, further comprising: anAC-DC inverter coupled to the at least one busbar, wherein the AC-DCinverter is configured to manage a DC bus; and a solar PV system coupledto the DC bus.
 16. The system of claim 1, further comprising atouchscreen coupled to the control circuitry, the touchscreen configuredto provide a display and receive haptic input.
 17. The system of claim1, further comprising a main disconnect coupled to the controlcircuitry, wherein the control circuitry is configured to control themain disconnect.
 18. The system of claim 1, wherein at least onecontrollable breaker is configured to be coupled to an electric load,and wherein the control circuitry is further configured to determineenergy information about the electric load.